Islamabad, April 24, 2025 – Pakistan has imposed a sweeping ban on Indian-registered aircraft, closing its airspace to all Indian civil and military flights, according to a NOTAM issued by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The decision, prompted by escalating diplomatic tensions with India, is set to disrupt air travel across the region, impacting millions of passengers and costing Indian airlines dearly.
The CAA’s directive, effective immediately, prohibits overflights by Indian carriers, including leased aircraft under Indian control, for an initial period of one month. “No Indian-registered aircraft, whether civil or military, will be permitted to traverse Pakistani airspace,” the CAA declared. This closure affects an estimated 70 to 100 daily flights that typically cross Pakistani airspace, connecting Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad to destinations in the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
Major Indian airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, and Akasa Air, now face significant operational challenges. Rerouting flights to avoid Pakistani airspace could extend flight times by up to two hours, increasing fuel consumption and operational costs. Industry experts project daily losses for Indian carriers in the range of millions of rupees, with potential fare hikes looming for passengers.
The ban’s ripple effects extend beyond economics. Travelers from India to Gulf countries, a critical route for millions of migrant workers, may face delays and higher ticket prices. Flights to Europe and the Americas will also require longer routes, potentially straining airline schedules and passenger patience.
Pakistan’s decision comes amid strained bilateral relations, with both nations trading barbs over security and diplomatic issues. While Islamabad has not specified the exact trigger for the airspace closure, analysts suggest it may be a retaliatory measure following recent political developments. India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has yet to issue an official response, but sources indicate that New Delhi is exploring alternative flight paths and diplomatic channels to mitigate the crisis.
As the situation unfolds, the aviation industry braces for a turbulent period. With no immediate resolution in sight, the airspace ban underscores the fragility of India-Pakistan relations and its far-reaching impact on global connectivity.
